Police warn Thomas Cook customers to be vigilant over cold call scam

Thomas Cook customers are being warned to be vigilant over cold call scammers.

Police Scotland has said any travellers affected by the collapse of the company should be on their guard following fake calls involving refunds from the travel firm .

The airline and holiday company was placed into liquidation on Monday leaving passengers stranded across the world and thousands of workers out of jobs.

Police believe may use the situation as an opportunity to target those affected by gaining access to their bank details.

Many Thomas Cook customers were left stranded after the company's demise on Monday (REUTERS)

Inspector Coleen Wylie said: “If you’ve been affected by the Thomas Cook liquidation, be aware that scammers may use this as an opportunity to target you. Be vigilant of unsolicited calls, texts or social media messages, asking for your personal or financial details, and don’t automatically click on the links in unexpected emails.

“Remember, legitimate organisations will never contact you out of the blue and ask for your financial details, such as your PIN, banking passwords or card details. If you receive a call you are not expecting, hang up and contact the company directly using a known email or phone number.

“Any victims of such crimes, or anyone with any concerns can contact their local police station via 101."

Following Thomas Cook, ceasing to trade, the UK Government and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has set-up dedicated websites to assist customers and employees affected.

How to protect yourself from bogus callers

• Consider making your phone number ex-directory.
• Don’t give out any personal information unless you are the one who made the call and you are certain of the identity of the person you are speaking to.
• Don’t give out your credit card or bank card details to strangers on the telephone.
• NEVER tell somebody your bank PIN number, even if they claim to be the bank or police. If the caller is genuine they will never ask for this information.
• Don’t give out information which may infer that you live alone, are older or vulnerable.
• Never send money to anyone who claims to have a prize for you.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Contact local trading standards – they may be able to use approved ‘call blocking’ technology.